"I can think of no better definition," he snapped, "than one given by a distinguished physician in the earlier years of this century. He defined the human body as an animal organism, differing in only a few respects from other animal organisms, and fitted for the performance of two main functions: The conversion of food and air into energy and tissue; and the reproduction of other individuals of its species!"
So coldly, with such an air of finality did he speak, that his words brought an audible gasp from two women in the jury box. Jake Emspak remained impassive.
"And this is all you see in a man?" he prodded gently.
The doctor's jaw set stubbornly.
"As a philosopher," he retorted, "I may engage in some speculation in the company of Plato, Schopenhauer or the Archbishop of Canterbury, but my speculations would themselves be based upon speculations and not upon any scientific data resembling observed facts!"
"Then, from your point of view, the defendant in this courtroom is not the Tony Corfino—the same man—whose broken body was brought into your hospital eight months ago?"
"Obviously not."
"Thank you, Doctor."
Jake walked slowly from the witness stand to the jury box, and then back to the bench.
"Perhaps," he said softly, "a ten-minute recess would be in order...."